The 2026 ACS CAN policy forum in New York City will bring together influential policymakers, leading healthcare executives, and community advocates to address the disproportionate cancer burden facing the Latino community, one of the fastest-growing populations in the United States.
Through dynamic discussions and an expert-led panel, the forum will spotlight critical gaps across the cancer care continuum—from early detection and diagnosis to treatment access and long-term survivorship. Attendees will gain insight into the structural, cultural, and systemic factors that contribute to disparities, as well as the innovative policy solutions poised to drive meaningful change in the Latino community and other communities that experience health disparities.
Cyndie Navarro-Davila with team members across the organization to address health equity policy and advocacy needs and provides strategic leadership for partnerships that strengthen ACS CAN’s health equity work. She previously worked for American Cancer Society on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team where she worked as Senior Consultant, DEI, and prior to that was Associate Director of Development in Central California after volunteering for over a decade as an ACS volunteer.
Maria L. Lugo is a mission-driven nonprofit leader and health equity advocate with over 20 years of experience advancing community-centered programs that address health disparities in Latino communities. As National Director for Health Programs at Hispanic Federation, she leads national initiatives focused on maternal wellness, mental health, cancer prevention, patient navigation, chronic disease prevention, and culturally responsive care. Through strategic partnerships, education, and advocacy, Maria works to improve access to quality healthcare and empower underserved communities. Her expertise includes program development, case management, community outreach, trauma-informed care, and stakeholder engagement. With dual master’s-level training in Human Services and Clinical Social Work, she is committed to advancing health equity, dignity, and social justice.
Dr. Gilbert Burgos, leads the National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) efforts to empower Hispanic and Latino physicians, cultivate future health care leaders, and advance health equity in underserved communities. A dedicated NHMA member for more than 20 years, Dr. Burgos has served in numerous leadership roles, including Chairman of the Board and Acting President, helping guide the organization through periods of growth and transition. His leadership reflects a longstanding commitment to physician advocacy, culturally informed care, and improving health outcomes for diverse populations nationwide.
Board-certified in Internal Medicine and a Certified Physician Executive, Dr. Burgos brings extensive executive experience working with hospitals, large multispecialty physician groups, and health plans to improve access, quality, and innovation in health care delivery. He earned his medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, completed his residency at Montefiore Medical Center, and received a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management from Harvard University. Through his leadership, Dr. Burgos continues to champion the development of Hispanic physicians and solutions that address health disparities across communities throughout the United States.
Karines Reyes is an Afro-Latina immigrant, longtime Bronx resident, registered nurse, and public servant. Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and raised in Puerto Rico, she came to the United States at age six and built a career dedicated to service and advocacy. A registered nurse in the Oncology Department at Montefiore Einstein Hospital, Karines earned her nursing degree while working full time and raising two sons. She has been a leader in the New York State Nurses Association, advocating for patient care and health equity. She also serves as Chair of the New York State Assembly and Senate Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force. Following Hurricane Maria, she volunteered as a nurse in Puerto Rico. Throughout her career in healthcare, labor leadership, and public service, Karines has championed the needs of underserved communities.
Angela Gonzalez-Perez, MPA, FACHE, is Vice President of Operations and Executive Director for the Einstein Hospital Campus at Montefiore Health System, where she leads strategic operations for Einstein Jack D. Weiler Hospital and Montefiore Medical Park. A seasoned healthcare executive, she is responsible for advancing quality, patient safety, operational excellence, and clinical growth while fostering a patient-centered culture of care.
Prior to joining Montefiore Health System, Angela Gonzalez-Perez spent more than 25 years with NewYork-Presbyterian, serving in a series of leadership roles that culminated in Vice President of Operations positions at both Brooklyn Methodist Hospital and Hudson Valley Hospital. A Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), she holds a Master of Public Administration and has dedicated her career to improving healthcare operations, expanding access to high-quality care, and developing innovative programs that enhance patient outcomes.
Actor, comedian, writer—Jenny L. Saldaña has been called all of these things. However, what she is most proud of is being called a survivor. Ever since being diagnosed, treated and beating breast cancer in 2006, she’s been a cancer survivor Warrior Queen.
She has also been called the BOOB WHISPERER for all the work she does for women diagnosed with breast cancer, a title she has embraced and wears with honor. Jenny spreads cancer health awareness with her very candid comedy style and will always help anyone newly diagnosed with cancer navigate the devastating news and next steps.
